Rapid City – Lois Carlson, 83, died Thursday, July 28, 2016 at the Good Samaritan Center at New Underwood.

On June 11, 1933 a beautiful baby girl was born at the Nelson farm to Chester and Emma Nelson. She was named Lois Marjorie. Lois grew to adulthood on the family farm in Turner County, SD with her older brother Newell and older sister Marilyn, sharing the farm duties. Lois was educated at the rural elementary school and later for high school at Viborg High School, where she graduated salutatorian of the class of 1951. Being a very active girl she took part in class plays, singing groups and cheerleader for the high school teams. Continuing her education at Nettleton Commercial College in Sioux Falls was important to her and she was hired for her first job as secretary for the Traffic Manager at John Morrell and Co. Lois always made friends quickly, because of her beautiful smile and quick wit.

At a mutual friend's wedding was where she met Bob Carlson. First impressions are lasting impressions that lasted for more than 60 years. Lois and Bob were married June 17, 1956 and she was off to become an Air Force wife. Their marriage produced two children, Trudy and Bruce. The family traveled extensively  and lived at several locations because of company transfers.  Lois always had the prime objective as family care. After the children entered college, she was off to the office. Enjoying the banking business, Lois was secretary for bank management. The family grew with the birth of grandchildren, two boys Josh and Derek and two girls Amanda and Sophie. Of course the grandchildren were her pride and joy.

Retirement brought more travel, foreign and domestic, which was very satisfying especially visiting old friends and relatives. Late years in life brought illness and extensive healthcare, with Lois living at Senior Healthcare facilities. Her final years were spent at Good Samaritan facilities where attending angels cared for her.

Lois was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and a cherished friend to many. She lived a  good life with many adventures along the way. Over the years she enjoyed traveling, reading, quilting, spending time with family, and watching the Boston Red Sox. She had a keen sense of humor, a kind heart and a gentle soul. Her kindness, smile, and wit will be truly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband: Robert "Bob" Carlson of Rapid City; one son Bruce [Michelle] Carlson of Marietta, GA; one daughter Trudy Tool of Colorado Springs, CO; one sister Marilyn Lauritzen of Viborg; and four grandchildren.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents and one brother Newell.

Her memorial service will be 10:00 am Saturday, September 3, 2016 at the Calvary Lutheran Church, 5311 Sheridan Lake Road with Rev. Becky Piper officiating.

Inurnment will be 10:00 am Tuesday, September 6, 2016 at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

Memorials may be given to the Quilters at Calvary Lutheran Church.

Arrangements are with Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.